ABSTRACT
Varicose veins are the commonest of all the vascular disorders affecting man. Of all the
earth’s mobile creatures man alone is afflicted by this abnormal condition due to his
penchant for maintaining an upright posture. Venous disease has interested mankind for
many centuries. “Serpentine windings” on the legs have been recorded as early as 1550 B.C.
in the papyrus of Ebers and the author advises against operation because it causes
hemorrhage and death! Since then, the assessment and treatment of venous disease
has advanced manyfold and surgery, when indicated, can be offered with acceptable risk to
those affected. However, an inadequate clinical assessment can result in an unsatisfactory
outcome following treatment with consequent significant patient dissatisfaction.
